System and method for the safe provision of ozone

ABSTRACT

Provided is a disposable capsule. The capsule provided with a safety pressure valve configured as a weak-point section of the capsule housing such that the weak-point ruptures in the event of pressure build-up within said capsule due to blockage of the opening of the capsule. Further, the capsule is provided with a lance that is fluidly connected to one end of the capsule. One end may be configured to conduct external manipulation of the capsule through the lance to the impermeable barrier.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of ozone generatorsand more specifically to on-demand generation of ozone and ozone-richliquids that may be utilized effectively and safely in a wide array ofapplications from personal hygiene to surface sanitation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Liquids ‘impregnated’ with ozone otherwise known as ‘ozonated liquids’or ‘ozone-rich solutions’, provided that a proper concentration anddispersion of the ozone within the liquid is achieved, are useful forthe sanitation of surfaces, as an antiseptic, for the topologicaltreatment of skin conditions and wounds, for maintaining generalwell-being, and for expediting the healing process of infections in bothdental and medical applications. However, health and safety concerns inthe medical and dental application of ozone, be it gaseous orliquid-impregnated, entail that it must be free of contaminants orby-products, and therefore must be produced from pure oxygen.

This has traditionally been achieved, for example in HealOzone™commercial products, by utilizing a medical grade oxygen canister thatis free from the impurities found in ambient air, or alternatively bygenerating oxygen locally by means of an electrical apparatus forseparating the impurities and the moisture found in ambient air from thepure oxygen it contains. Both these traditional approaches haveshortcomings, the former requires the transportation, storage andhandling of oxygen canisters that may present a safety hazard if properpressure, heat, and spark conditions cannot be strictly controlled (forexample in a typical residential household), and indeed oxygen canistershave been barred on commercial airlines; the latter requires a bulky andnoisy air-pump based component, thereby consuming energy, restrictingthe possibility of both the miniaturisation of the device and itsplacement (again for example in a typical residential household), andgenerating production as well as maintenance costs related to themechanical components that are employed.

Moreover, even if medical grade ozone output is not required (forexample for surface sanitation), once a source of pure oxygen is notemployed, in order to generate substantial ozone at a reasonable rate(i.e. gram per hour) one would require the use of a cumbersomeconventional electrical air ‘dryer’ for the purpose of dehumidification,as disclosed in US patent application 2005/236338 (MINNIX): ‘Meanwhile,oxygen (O2) enters dryer 57 where it is dried in preparation forconversion to ozone (O3). The dried oxygen (O2) flows to ozone generator56, which produces ozone (O3) from the dried oxygen (O2).’., orsimilarly in the system for water purification of US patent application4619763 (O'BRIEN) as disclosed in claim 1 therein ‘ . . . (c) means forchilling and thereafter drying the ambient air prior to its being passedthrough said ozone generator;’.

The direct application of gaseous ozone for medical or dental purposes,for example as disclosed in European patent 1335680 (CUROZONE), presentsenvironmental challenges with respect to preventing the exposure ofunintended tissue and organs to ozone gas, as well as the environmentaldamage associated with the uncontrolled release of ozone to the generalenvironment. Hence CUROZONE teaches: ‘A cup attached to the hand piece,is provided for receiving the gas and exposing a selected area of thetooth to the gas. The cup may include a resilient edge for sealablyengaging the tooth around the selected area to prevent escape of the gastherepast.’, and ‘In that regard a controller may be provided forregulating the ozone and aspiration pumps in order to circulate the gasinto and out of the cup chamber at a pressure insufficient to escapepast the sealed engagement between and the tooth.’ However, thesemeasures for preventing ozone leakage rely on professionally appliedsealants and high maintenance aspiration pumps that are suited bothtechnologically (noise, physical volume, maintenance, ease-of-use) andultimately also economically for a professional environment (e.g. adental practice), rather than for use by a layperson in a residentialenvironment.

Ozone can also be used in sanitary, medical, and dental applications byimpregnating a liquid with ozone. Ozonated liquid mostly captures theozone within it, and is not easily aspirated (gaseous ozone can causeirritation and damage to the respiratory system) therefore itsapplication presents a highly reduced ‘health and safety’ risk, andmakes it suitable for use in home appliances, provided that any ozoneoff-gas, produced during the impregnating process or the temporarystorage of the impregnated liquid, is contained or safely decomposed.

To assure the balance between the effectiveness in the application of anozonated liquid on the one hand, and the safety of the application onthe other, one must control the concentration of ozone within thedispensed ozonated liquid. GB patent application 2012/051502 (HESKETH)discloses ‘a device for supply of ozonated liquid, comprising a liquidreservoir, a supply passage which communicates with the reservoir and isconnectable to an outlet of an ozone generator and a pump forcirculating fluid in a loop in which the fluid passes from the reservoirto the ozone generator back to the reservoir through the passage . . .’, in which ‘By circulating the water in this closed loop for a periodof time, the ozone concentration in the reservoir 16 is progressivelyincreased and relatively high concentrations can be achieved.’ Moreover,HESKETH further discloses that ‘Some means of control is required toensure that an adequate concentration of ozone is achieved.’, and goeson to offer that ‘This may simply be achieved by a timer which causesthe pump 36 and the ozone generator to run for a chosen period.’ oralternatively ‘to actively monitor ozone concentration, which may beachieved through a sensor (not shown) mounted e.g. in the reservoir 16.’Similarly MINNIX teaches ‘The amount of ozone generated may be adjustedaccording to the amount of ozone sensed in the water.’; and likewise inthe Method and apparatus for preparation and use of ozone water of U.S.Pat. No. 6,585,898 (OTRE AB) claim 1 teaches: ‘ . . . ozone measuringmeans (51) for measuring the ozone concentration of said water in thecontainer (60).’

Furthermore HESKETH teaches that due to the ‘relatively expensive ozonegenerator’ component, in order not to hinder mobility andcost-effectiveness, once the ‘Fluid 18 (typically water) is circulatedthrough the ozone generator as so charged with ozone . . . the unit 10can be disconnected from the ozone generator and taken to a point of use(e.g. hospital ward).’, thereby allowing the use of a plurality ofozonated liquid delivery units with a single ozone generator. IndeedHESKETH cites the lack of an onboard ozone generator as a cost-effectivetechnological advantage when compared with the cleaning and disinfectingapparatus disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,589 (GOODLEY). Still bothHESKETH and GOODLEY rely on the time-consuming circulation of the liquidin order to increase the ozone concentration, as taught by GOODLEY: ‘arecirculating system for recirculating the combined water and ozone fromthe holding tank through the venturi for increasing the ozoneconcentration’. Likewise, MINNIX teaches recirculation as a means forachieving increased ozone concentration, or otherwise referred to as‘super-impregnation’: ‘The ozone is then passed to venturi 34, whichinjects the unsterilized water with the ozone to produce ozonated(sterile) water. The ozonated water then flows from venturi 34 toholding tank 38 via pipe 52. The ozonated water is drawn from holdingtank 28 back to pump 24 via pipe 54, and is either recirculated toventuri 34 for super-impregnation of ozone, or released to tap 32.’.

It is therefore a long-felt need to provide a system and method for theprovision of the medical and dental benefits availed by exposure tomedical-grade ozone, that overcomes the safety issues relating totransport, storage and handling, associated with the conventional use of‘onboard’ pressurised pure-oxygen as the source gas for medical-gradeozone. It is a further long-felt need to provide a system and method forthe medical and dental benefits availed by exposure to medical-gradeozone, that overcomes the cumbersome volume, noise, maintenance, andcost associated with the conventional use of an onboard oxygen generatoror air separator as the provider of a source gas for medical-gradeoxygen. It yet another long-felt need to provide a system and method forthe provision of the hygiene and sanitation effects availed by theexposure of areas and surfaces to an effective amount or concentrationof ozone, without the cumbersome bulk, the noise, the cost, themaintenance, associated with the conventional use an air dryer or aircooler. It is yet another long-felt need to provide a system and methodfor the provision of the medical, dental, hygiene and sanitation effectsavailed by the controlled exposure of areas and surfaces to ozone,without the cumbersome bulk, the noise, the cost, the maintenance, theprofessional infrastructure, and professional operation, in conventionalgaseous ozone delivery systems. It is yet another long-felt need toprovide a system and method for the provision of the medical, dental,hygiene and sanitation effects availed by the controlled exposure ofareas and surfaces to an ozone-rich solution, which overcomes thetime-consuming, cumbersome, maintenance-heavy and costly utilization ofrepeated circulation of the liquid through means for impregnating theliquid with ozone, or otherwise repeatedly impregnating the liquid withozone, in order to achieve an adequate concentration of ozone within theliquid. It is a further long-felt need to provide a system and methodfor the provision of the medical, dental, hygiene and sanitation effectsavailed by the controlled exposure of areas and surfaces to anozone-rich solution at a particular concentration adequate for aparticular application, that overcomes reliability, placement andmaintenance difficulties brought on by the conventional usage of asensor placed in contact with the liquid. It is a further long-felt needto provide a system and method for the provision of the medical, dental,hygiene and sanitation effects availed by the controlled exposure ofareas and surfaces to an ozone-rich solution at a particularconcentration adequate for a particular application, that overcomes theperplexity often brought on in a layperson when confronted with themanual setting of a particular concentration by conventional controlpanel means, and the risk of accidentally operating the system at anunintentional setting and consequently delivering an ozone-rich solutionat an undesired or even harmful concentration. It is yet anotherlong-felt need to provide a system and method for the provision of thesanitation, hygiene, dental and medical benefits of gaseous ozone or anozone-rich solution in a device of non-bulky unobtrusive dimensions,that avoids the complexity in operation and maintenance-heavy, cost, andsafety issues that have typically restricted the provision of devicesthat are capable of safely delivering effective ozone amount orconcentration to non-professional users in non-professional settings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Methods, systems, and other means are provided for a device that safelygenerates ozone and ozone-rich solution in a household environment.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system for safe generation and delivering of ozone comprising:at least one disposable capsule, each capsule is configured tochemically generate a predetermined dose of oxygen wherein thedisposable capsule is manipulated in a way that initiates generation ofoxygen; an ozone generator for generating ozone from the predetermineddose of oxygen, wherein the ozone generator is fluidically connected tothe capsule.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein a plurality of disposable capsules withdifferent predetermined doses of oxygen are available so that a user canselect an appropriate disposable capsule so as to generate an amount ofozone that is needed.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the ozone generator is powered as long asoxygen flow to said ozone generator is maintained.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, further comprising a user interface through whichchemical generation of oxygen is initiated.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, further comprising a sensor positioned between thedisposable capsule and the ozone generator, wherein the sensor isconfigured to sense the flow of oxygen so that accordingly, power to theozone generator is regulated.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein to disposable capsule is received within areceptacle that is configured to manipulate the capsule so as to allowflow of oxygen from the capsule to t ozone generator.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein said ozone generator is selected from a groupof ozone generators comprising: corona discharge electrode, cold plasma,UV light, vacuum UV light, or a combination thereof.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, further comprising a container for receiving a liquidinto which ozone from the ozone generator is dissolved and diffused soas to produce ozone-rich solution.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the liquid is of a predetermined volume so asto control the ozone concentration within the ozone-rich solution.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the ozone-rich solution is dispensed through aliquid jet.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein excess gaseous ozone from the container isdecomposed in a filter from which resultant oxygen is dispensed to theenvironment.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein at least one level sensor is provided to thecontainer so as to maintain a desirable level range of liquid.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the ozone generator is a corona dischargeozone generator that is configured with a sterile electrode and whereinthe ozone is of medical grade.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the at least one disposable capsule isrecyclable.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the disposable capsule comprising: at leasttwo compartments, each of the compartments is provided with a chemicalcomponent; at least one impermeable barrier separating the at least twocompartments one from the other wherein disruption of the impermeablebarrier allows the chemical components to react and to generate oxygen;a lance for disrupting the impermeable barrier: and at least one openingfor releasing generated oxygen from the disposable capsule.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, further comprising filter between the disposablecapsule and the ozone generator.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the filter is selected from a group of filterscomprising: selective membrane, gas washer, or a combination thereof.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, further comprising monitoring indicator for indicatingsaturation of the filter, wherein the monitoring indicator is selectedfrom a group of indicators comprising: see-through window for directview of the filter, audio or visual indicator fluidically connected to asensor, or a combination thereof

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a householdappliance system, wherein the household appliance system is forapplications selected from a group of applications comprisingsanitation, hygiene, dental, medical, or a combination thereof.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide adisposable capsule for chemically generating a predetermined dose ofoxygen to be used in an ozone generator comprising: at least twocompartments, each of the compartments is provided with a chemicalcomponent; at least one impermeable barrier separating said at least twocompartments one from the other, wherein disruption of said impermeablebarrier allows the chemical components to react and to generate oxygen;a sealed opening to allow collection of oxygen; and a lance fordisrupting said impermeable barrier.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a disposablecapsule for chemically generating a predetermined dose of oxygen to beused in an ozone generator, wherein said lance is fluidically connectedto one end of said capsule, and said one end is configured to conductexternal manipulation of said capsule through said lance to saidimpermeable barrier.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a disposablecapsule for chemically generating a predetermined dose of oxygen to beused in an ozone generator, further comprising an gas selective at thesealed opening.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a disposablecapsule for chemically generating a predetermined dose of oxygen to beused in an ozone generator, wherein the disposable capsule is marked soas to indicate the predetermined dose of oxygen.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a disposablecapsule for chemically generating a predetermined dose of oxygen to beused in an ozone generator, wherein the disposable capsule is providedwith a pressure release valve as safety means.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a methodfor on-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amountcomprising: providing an oxygen-based ozone generator; loading adisposable capsule, wherein said disposable capsule is configured tochemically generate a predetermined dose of oxygen; initiatinggeneration of a predetermined dose of oxygen; allowing saidpredetermined dose of oxygen from the capsule to flow through saidoxygen-based ozone generator so that ozone is generated and can bedelivered.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method foron-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount,wherein said disposable capsule comprises: at least two compartments,each of the compartments is provided with a chemical component; at leastone impermeable barrier separating said at least two compartments onefrom the other, wherein disruption of the impermeable barrier allows thechemical components to react and to generate oxygen; a sealed opening toallow collection of the predetermined dose of oxygen; and a lance fordisrupting said impermeable barrier; wherein the method furthercomprising manipulating said the opening to allow flow of oxygen.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method foron-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount,further comprising passing the ozone through a diffuser into a liquid soas to produce ozone-rich solution.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method foron-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount,further comprising dispensing the ozone-rich solution through a liquidjet.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method foron-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount,further comprising decomposing ozone that is not dissolved orimpregnated in the solution.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method foron-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount,further comprising monitoring flow of oxygen by a flow sensor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In order to better understand the invention and its implementation inpractice, a plurality of embodiments will now be described, by way ofnon-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings,in which

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic operational view of a preferredembodiment of the household appliance system for safe generation anddelivering of ozone.

FIG. 2a illustrates a side view of a preferred embodiment of thedisposable capsule.

FIG. 2b illustrates a cross-section view of a preferred embodiment ofthe disposable capsule, shown in FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 3a illustrates a side view of a preferred embodiment of capsulereceptacle mechanism.

FIG. 3b illustrates a cross-section view of a preferred embodiment ofcapsule receptacle mechanism shown in FIG. 3 a.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section view of a preferred embodiment ofozone impregnation system.

FIG. 5a illustrates a top view of yet another preferred embodiment ofozone impregnation system.

FIG. 5b illustrates a cross-section view of yet another preferredembodiment of ozone impregnation system.

FIG. 6a illustrates top view of a preferred embodiment of a filter,wherein the filter is a gas-washer.

FIG. 6b illustrates side view of the filter shown in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6c illustrates cross-section view of the filter shown in FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 7 illustrates flow-chart of a preferred embodiment of the methodfor on-site safe generation and delivering ozone at a specific amount.

FIG. 8 illustrating a schematic operational view of yet anotherpreferred embodiment of the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of thepresent invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to makeuse of said invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by theinventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however,will remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the genericprinciples of the present invention have been defined specifically toprovide a household appliance system for safe generation and deliveringof ozone.

The device and method of the present invention has many technologicaladvantages, among them:

enabling reduced physical dimensions;enabling hazard-free storage, transport and placement;enabling risk-free operation by a layperson;reducing noise-pollution;lowering energy consumption;reducing components, and thereby production and maintenance costs;providing ease-of-use; and,simplifying the achievement of a an application-tailored amount orconcentration of ozone within an ozonated liquid.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparentfrom the following drawings and description.

The term ‘ozone generator’ refers hereinafter to any means forgenerating ozone utilizing a selected a technology selected from a groupincluding: corona discharge, cold plasma, UV light, vacuum UV light, ora combination thereof.

The term ‘corona discharge ozone generator’ refers hereinafter to atechnology that utilizes electrical discharge in order to convert oxygeninto ozone.

The term ‘electrode’ refers hereinafter to a means for producingelectrical discharge.

The term ‘sterile electrode’ refers hereinafter to an electrode that isengulfed in material that is resistant to oxygen and ozone (for exampleglass), and does not corrode due to exposure to ozone or sensitive tothe corona and does not produce by-products other than ozone in thereaction that occurs by exposing oxygen to an electrical discharge.

The term ‘household appliance’ refers hereinafter to an electricalappliance of moderate dimensions that is suitable for safe storage,placement and usage within the home, by a non-professional user.Notwithstanding the suitability of the ‘household appliance’ for homeoperation by a non-professional user, the term should not be construedto limit the reconfiguration of the appliance by those skilled in theart to either outdoor or professional settings.

The terms ‘safe’ or ‘safety’ refer hereinafter interchangeably tovarious aspects of health and safety issues relating to the integrity ofa device, its operation, its maintenance, the product it produces andultimately the risk that any of the above might present to its user oroperator, selected from a list including: placement, handling,environmental conditions, storage, usage, active damage prevention,passive damage prevention, or a combination thereof.

The terms ‘ozonated liquid’, ‘ozone impregnated liquid’ and ‘ozone-richsolution’ refer hereinafter interchangeably to a liquid, typicallywater, that is impregnated with ozone by diffusing gaseous ozone to theliquid. The resulted liquid contains soluble ozone and ozone bubbles.

The term ‘medical grade’ refers hereinafter to at least one of a set ofgeopolitically-contingent medical or dental standards that designate asubstance is approved for a form of application selected from a groupconsisting of: open wound application, topological application,injection, inhalation, ingestion, surface sanitation, or a combinationthereof.

The term ‘medical grade ozone’ refers hereinafter to gaseous ozone thatis free of contaminants or by-products produce during the ozonegeneration process.

The term ‘excess ozone’ refers hereinafter to a by-product of theprocess of impregnating a liquid with ozone or the temporary storage ofozone-rich liquid, and must therefore be contained and decomposed toprevent it leaking into the environment.

The term ‘ozone filter’ refers to a means for decomposing ozone-off gasinto benign oxygen.

The term ‘computer processor’ refers hereinafter to a computerprocessing means that is capable of receiving data from sensor andelectronically controlling the electrical operation of a device orsystem, or parts thereof.

The term ‘user interface’ refers hereinafter to means for monitoring andcontrolling a device, system, or parts thereof.

The term ‘visual indication’ refers hereinafter to an indication availedto the user by visual means selected from a group consisting of: asee-through window, a light, a bulb, a signal, a written message, or acombination thereof.

The term ‘liquid level sensor’ refers hereinafter to a means fordetermining the volume of liquid within the container.

The term ‘gas washer’ refers hereinafter to a means for a filtering agas by bring it in contact with or seeping it through a liquid.

The term ‘substantially moderate physical dimensions’ refers hereafterto the weight and volume of a device comparable to the typical size of acountertop small home appliance such as a standard mixer or foodprocessor.

The term ‘household’ or ‘household environment’ refers hereinafter tothe uncontrolled and varying environmental conditions such as humidity,temperature, pressure, dust, sparks, open-fire, etc., as opposed to thecontrolled environment that may be achieved in a professional settingsuch as a hospital, a clinic, a purpose built sanitation facility, etc.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1, illustrating a schematic operationalview of a preferred embodiment (100) of the household appliance systemfor safe generation and delivering of ozone of the present invention,wherein a disposable capsule (300) encapsulating at least two separatedcomponents (not shown) of a chemical reaction based generation of apredetermined dose of oxygen, is placed through opening (87) inreceptacle mechanism (800) and thereby sealably connected to oxygendelivery tube (24 a). Upon instruction by the user by means of userinterface (16) and mediated by computer processor (14) the separationbetween the chemical components is mechanically disrupted (not shown)and oxygen generated by the reaction flows through oxygen flow sensor(22) and subsequently through gas-wash oxygen filter (500) to bedelivered by filtered-oxygen delivery tube (24 b) to ozone generator(10), wherein data from the flow sensor mediated by the computerprocessor, triggers the application of voltage to the ozone generatorfor the duration of detected oxygen flow; thereby generating apredetermined amount of ozone that matches the dose of oxygen flowingthrough the ozone generator during the duration of voltage application.The ozone further flowing by ozone delivery tube (24 c) to ozoneimpregnation system (600 b) and impregnating liquid contained incontainer (60 a) with the ozone by means of ozone gas impregnator (68);further instruction by conventional button interface (21) embedded inozone-rich delivery jet (20) and mediated by the computer processortriggers the operation of liquid pump (12) that pumps the ozone-richliquid contained within the container through ozone-rich liquid deliverytube (24 e) to the delivery jet; further excess ozone (26), by-productof the liquid impregnation, is funneled by excess ozone exhaust (24 d)through ozone decomposition filter (18) thereby decomposing the excessozone into oxygen flow (28) that is safely released into theenvironment.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2a , FIG. 2b , respectively illustrating aside and cross-section view of a preferred embodiment of the disposablecapsule (300) of the present invention, wherein a first chemicalreaction component, preferably a water based solution of MnO₂, iscontained within a first compartment (36 a) and is separated by means ofimpermeable barrier (38) from a second chemical component, preferablyCaCO₂.H₂O that is contained within a second compartment (36 b) and thetwo compartments are encapsulated by essentially cylindrical capsulehousing (30) having one end (40) adapted to be corrugated andincorporating an integral lance (42) protruding inwardly though thesecond chemical component and ending in tangent with the correspondingend of the impermeable barrier; the opposite end of the one end of thecapsule is configured with outwardly protruding opening (30) sealed atone end by seal (34) configured to prevent moisture from entering thecapsule during storage and at its opposite end is in fluid communicationwith gas selective membrane (32) that is in fluid communication with thesecond compartment by means of openings (46 a). The membrane can be anoxygen selective membrane. When the barrier is disrupted, the twocomponents mix and react to generate gaseous oxygen that pass throughthe opening of the capsule. The capsule is further provided withpressure release safety-valve (44), preferably a weak-point in thecapsule housing, configured to release pressure build-up within thecapsule in the event of an obstruction in the intended oxygen flow pathprovided by the openings (46 a) and (30).

Reference is now made to FIG. 3a, 3b , respectively illustrating a sideand cross-section view of a preferred embodiment (800) of the capsulereceptacle mechanism of the present invention. Capsule (300) is loadedthrough opening (87) into receptacle housing (86) that comprises at oneend a connector fluidically capable of connecting the capsule with theoxygen delivery tube 24 a. The connector is provided with a rupturingmeans such as a needle (80) that is pointing towards the seal (34). Atthe opposite end of the capsule, the capsule is provided with acorrugated end (40) and the lance (42), beneath which a platform (88) isprovided that is capable of mechanically moving against a spring (90). Afixed pin (91) is preferably provided within the spring 90 so that whenthe capsule is moving towards the platform, forcing it to movedownwardly, the pin is pushing the lance (42) due to the corrugated end(40) so as to enable it to rupture the impermeable barrier (38) andallow the chemicals to mix. Upon movement of the connector (84)downwardly, the opening (30) and the tube (24 a) are seleangly connectedby an o-ring (82) and needle 80 is rupturing the seal (34). Asexplained, the capsule is moving towards the platform while the lance isrupturing the impermeable barrier and the reaction to generate oxygentakes place. The oxygen then can escape through opening (30) to theoxygen delivery tube through the ruptured seal. The oxygen passesthrough the gas selective membrane.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4 illustrating a cross-section view of apreferred embodiment (600 b) of the ozone impregnation system of thepresent invention, wherein liquid (70) is filled by pouring liquid intofunnel opening (72), wherein the funnel opening is a lower position thanan ozone exhaust 64 so as to assure the exhaust stays open; thecontainer is further configured with ozone inlet opening (66 c) in fluidcommunication with diffuser (68) for impregnating the liquid with ozone,and ozone-rich liquid outlet opening (66 d); the container is furtheradapted with minimum liquid level sensor (62 b) and excess liquid levelsensor (62 a), preferably mounted on the outer side of container (60 a),the container is further configured with excess ozone exhaust (64).

Reference is now made to FIG. 5a, 5b respectively illustrating a top andcross-section view of another preferred embodiment (600 a) of the ozoneimpregnation system of the present invention, comprising container (60a) sealed by container lid (60 b), wherein the container is furtheradapted with ozone inlet opening (66 c) in fluid communication withimpregnator (68) for impregnating the liquid with ozone, and ozone-richliquid outlet opening (66 d); the container is further configured withminimum liquid level sensor (62 b) and excess liquid level sensor (62a), preferably mounted on the outer side of the container, the containeris further configured with excess ozone exhaust (64).

Reference is now made to FIG. 6a, 6b, 6c respectively illustrating top,side and cross-section views of a preferred embodiment (500) of theoxygen filter of the present invention, wherein the filter is agas-washer, comprising: liquid container (50 a) containing liquid (54),and matching o-ring (52) sealable lid (50 b), wherein the lid isconfigured with inlet tube (56) that protrudes inwardly into thecontainer such that it extends beyond the upper level of the liquid, andwith an outlet tube (58) that protrudes inwardly into the container suchthat it extends into gas-gap (53); such that oxygen entering through theinlet is washed in the liquid, bubbles into the gas-gap and exitsthrough the outlet.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7 illustrating a flow-chart of a preferredembodiment of the method for on-site safe generation and deliveringozone at a specific amount of the present invention, comprising:selecting an application-specific disposable capsule and loading it areceptacle mechanism of an ozone generator (24); the user then purgesresidual liquid from the container (26); and monitors minimal liquidlevel in the container (28) until the liquid in the container isindicated to be in the lowest level. This step is important to assurethe liquid is fresh and lack in ozone. As long as the monitoring isnegative, purging liquid is repeated; when the level reaches the lowestlevel, the user fills new liquid in the container (30); and thenmonitors the oxygen filter's saturation (32); and accordingly, the userreplaces the oxygen filter (34) if the filter is indicated to besaturated; If the filter is in good performance or had been replaced,excess liquid level is monitored (36); and accordingly, the user isalerted (38) in case the level is not reached; after all security checksare positive, the user is initiating ozone generation (40); adequateoxygen flow is being monitored (42) to see whether oxygen is flowing. Ifthere is no oxygen in the system, the capsule should be replaced (44).If all monitors are positive, ozone is generated and collected (46).

It should be mentioned that optionally, the system can generate ozonewithout passing it through water. The system is described herein afterand accordingly, the method is adjusted.

Reference is now made to FIG. 8 illustrating a schematic operationalview of yet another preferred embodiment (110) of the householdappliance system for safe generation and delivering of ozone of thepresent invention, wherein a disposable capsule (300) encapsulating atleast two separated components (not shown) of a chemical reaction basedgeneration of a predetermined dose of oxygen, is placed through opening(87) in receptacle mechanism (800) and sealably connected to oxygendelivery tube (24 a). Upon being sealably connected the separationbetween the chemical components encapsulated by the capsule ismechanically disrupted (not shown) and oxygen generated by the reactionflows through oxygen flow sensor (22) and subsequently through gas-washoxygen filter (500) to be delivered by filtered-oxygen delivery tube (24b) to ozone generator (10), generating ozone for the duration of theapplication of voltage to the ozone generator, and delivering ozone bymeans of ozone delivery tube (24 c).

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, whereinapplication-specific doses of ozone are delivered by appropriatelyselecting at least one capsule configured to chemically generate apredetermined dose of oxygen, the system is comprising: a user interfacefor initiating the manipulating of the capsule and the disruption of thebarrier therein; an ozone generator for generating ozone from thepredetermined dose of oxygen, fluidically connected to the capsule; and,a computer processor capable of controlling at least generation of ozoneby the ozone generator using data received from the user interface.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention additionallycomprises a flow sensor configured to regulate the cutting-off power tothe ozone generator.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention is furthercomprising a ozone impregnation system for receiving a liquid into whichozone from the ozone generator is dissolved and diffused by a liquidimpregnator so as to produce ozone-rich liquid.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention is furthercomprising a liquid-jet for dispensing ozone-rich liquid.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention additionallycomprises a filter for decomposing excess ozone and releasing benignoxygen into the environment.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention additionallycomprises at least one level sensor provided to at least one containerso as to maintain a desirable level range of liquid.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, the atleast one level sensor is mounted on the outer side of the container.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, isadditionally comprising an ozone impregnation system, wherein thefilling liquid is selected from a group including: water, oil, solution,or a combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention additionallycomprises a filter between the disposable capsule and the ozonegenerator for ensuring pure and dry oxygen is delivered to the ozonegenerator.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention,additionally comprises an ozone impregnation system, wherein thecontainer is provided with a funnel through which filling of thecontainer is administered.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, the ozonegenerator is selected from a group comprising: corona dischargeelectrode, cold plasma, UV light, vacuum UV light, or a combinationthereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone, the system is of substantiallymoderate physical dimensions.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention isconfigured with a sterile-electrode ozone generator such that thedelivered ozone is medical-grade ozone.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention isadditionally comprising an ozone impregnation system, wherein thecontainer is configured of ozone resistant material selected from agroup consisting of glass, plastic, or a combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention is furthercomprising a see-through window through which the gas-wash oxygen filteris viewable, wherein the saturation of the filter can be monitored.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention is furtherconfigured with visual indication for filter saturation.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention furthercomprises at least one active damage prevention sensor for monitoring astate of potential damage either to the system or to the user, andacting to prevent it. For example, utilizing a sensor to sense anadequate level of liquid within a device and electronically preventingthe user from operating the system until the sensor verifies that anadequate level of liquid is present.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, isconfigured with a defensive design that in addition to complying withhealth and safety regulations in a non-professional environment, alsoemploys design to prevent the layperson user from misusing the device toan undesired or even harmful effect.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, is furtherconfigured with passive damage prevention design features thatinherently contain or prevent damage to either the system or the user.For example the choice of materials, the physical strength ofconstruction, excess pressure relieving valves, excess-ozonecontainment, excess-ozone decomposition, and directional control ofexcess by means of a ‘pressure delta’.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention, isconfigured as a module for the supply of ozone or ozone-rich liquid toan electrical appliance selected from a list including: a washingmachine, fresh produce sanitizer, toothbrush, dishwasher, containersanitizer, fumigator, odor remover, vacuum cleaner, vaporizer, steamer,or a combination thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention isconfigured for outdoor usage.

In a preferred embodiment, the household appliance system for safegeneration and delivering of ozone of the present invention isconfigured for professional medical use, wherein it meets medical gradestandards.

In a preferred embodiment, the method for on-site safe generation anddelivering ozone at a specific amount of the present inventionadditionally comprises purging the container from residual ozone-richliquid, wherein the precise concentration of ozone in the liquid can beassured.

In a preferred embodiment, the method for on-site safe generation anddelivering ozone at a specific amount of the present inventionadditionally comprises purging liquid from the container until receivingan alert from at least one liquid level range sensor.

In a preferred embodiment, the method for on-site safe generation anddelivering ozone at a specific amount of the present inventionadditionally comprises monitoring a faulty capsule by means of an oxygenflow sensor and replacing a faulty capsule.

In a preferred embodiment, the method for on-site safe generation anddelivering ozone at a specific amount of the present inventionadditionally comprises filling the container with a predetermined volumeof liquid, wherein an application-specific concentration of ozone in theliquid is assured by the ratio between the application specific amountof ozone generated and the predetermined volume of liquid.

In a preferred embodiment of the disposable capsule of the presentinvention, a dose of oxygen is released from a capsule encapsulating atleast two components of chemical reaction based generation of oxygen,wherein the components are precision measured to a achieve thepredetermined dose.

In a preferred embodiment of the disposable capsule of the presentinvention, the capsule is provided with an opening seal configured toprevent moisture from entering the capsule during storage.

In a preferred embodiment of the disposable capsule of the presentinvention, the capsule is color coded or otherwise visibly marked inaccordance with an application-specific amount of ozone to be generated.

In a preferred embodiment of the disposable capsule of the presentinvention, the capsule is provided with a safety pressure valveconfigured as a weak-point section of the capsule housing such that theweak-point ruptures in the event of pressure build-up within saidcapsule due to blockage of the opening of the capsule.

In a preferred embodiment of the disposable capsule of the presentinvention, the capsule is provided with a lance that is fluidicallyconnected to one end of the capsule, wherein the one end is configuredto conduct external manipulation of the capsule through the lance to theimpermeable barrier.

1.-29. (canceled)
 30. A disposable capsule for generating oxygencomprising: at least one chemical reactant that upon contact with watergenerates a dose of oxygen; and a sealed opening that can be opened toallow outflow of the generated oxygen.
 31. The disposable capsule ofclaim 30, further comprising a catalyst.
 32. The disposable capsule ofclaim 30, further comprising two compartments separated by a barrier, afirst of the two compartments comprises said at least one chemicalreactant and a second of the two compartments compartment compriseswater, mixture of the content of the two compartments generates saiddose of oxygen.
 33. The disposable capsule of claim 32, furthercomprising a catalyst in at least one of the two compartments.
 34. Thedisposable capsule of claim 33, wherein the barrier is a waterimpermeable membrane.
 35. The disposable capsule of claim 33, whereinthe barrier is disruptable and the disruption allows said mixture. 36.The disposable capsule of claim 30, further comprising a gas selectivemembrane at said sealed opening.
 37. The disposable capsule of claim 30,further comprising a pressure release valve.
 38. The disposable capsuleof claim 30, further comprising an integral lance configured forcontrolled disruption of said barrier.